Creatures of Love

V-DAY

2012-02-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

Thank you Pinterest, my new camera, surprise Valentines from friends and more sugar than my kids need to eat in a week. All helped contribute to a very happy and wonderful Valentines Day.

Tis the Season

2011-12-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

Tis the Season for walking around the neighborhood looking at Christmas lights and not freezing to death.

Tis the season for unwrapping Christmas presents before Christmas.

Tis the season for snow.

Thanks to a surprise present from family in Utah.

Tis the season for childrens bellies to be filled with candy and cookies instead of fruits and vegetables.

Tis the season to remember the Son of God and

be thankful for the many blessing we have been given!

Merry Christmas!!

Excuse my Randomness

2011-11-14T20:43:00.000-08:00

As I was looking through my blog I realized how many important, fun and life changing events have occured over the past few months and I have neglected to blog about them. So I am going to try to catch up on everything that has been going on in our lives and post them at random.

Havyn started Kindergarten at Blanding Elementary. It is a little weird to have her going to the same school I went to. Havyn calls the school the "Craynola School." She is standing by the crayons that my dad helped construct when the school was first built. Havyn enjoys school so much, especially recess. (what kid doesn't) She also loves story and art time and making friends.

I thought I better post about Havyn's first day of Kindergarten before next Monday, because it will be her last day at the Craynola School. We will be headed down to Yuma, AZ to soak up the sun and start a new adventure of our lives.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T20:16:00.001-07:00

Rainbow Brite, Raphael - Ninja Turtle, Shaggy & Scooby Doo

This year we decided to travel back to the

80's and have a tubular and rad halloween.

(I know Krew doesn't look like he had a great time, but once he warmed up to the fact that

if he wore a costume he got candy, he was ALL over it)

Happy Halloween!

Parenting: FAIL or WIN?

2011-09-26T19:27:00.001-07:00

This is what happens when I leave the kids with Jack.

The kids enjoyed themselves and returned with no injuries,

Jack got his nine holes in.

Everyone WINS!

Enjoy

2011-07-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer!

We are enjoying our summer (despite my claw)

Hope everyone is enjoying theirs.

Shakira, Soccer, Africa ...... Whats not to like

2011-07-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

To Elder & Sister Saunders,

I know you are worried about what musical number will be performed at your homecoming (which is only in four more weeks! woohoo)

well worry no more. Krew has been practicing a little diddy by Shakira (his celebrity crush)

called Waka Waka (this time for Africa)

(appropriate, don't ya think?)

He can sing, he can dance and best of all he has my rhythm and Jacks singing voice.

(imagine the potential)

Expect a full audience!

Locks 4 Love

2011-07-08T21:27:00.001-07:00

Havyn decided that her hair could be put to better use than just hanging around on her head, so she donated it to locks for love. She loves it and I love that there are far less knots and far less tears!

Jett in a Jet? Love it!

my BRAG moment

2011-06-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

This is a moment I want to remember forever.

(so if you don't want to hear a mom brag about her kids it time for you to move on)

Yesterday I was in church and I was enjoying the testimonies (BELIEVE me, in my ward you actually enjoy them. So far we have had three people go up and say my name is ________ and I am an alcoholic and there have been many other personal things said that most people wouldn't say in testimony meetings. It keeps you on your toes)

Havyn started to notice all these people going up to the stand and she turned to me and said

"mom, is this testimony meeting?"

me- "Yes, this is where you can go up and bear your testimony about Jesus Christ, the gospel and the church"

Then I directed my attention to Jett. I turned back toward Havyn and notice she is half way down the aisle headed up to the stage. I panic and half whisper, half yell "Havyn, what are you doing?"

havyn - "mom, its okay, I am going to go bury my testimony"

Then, I panicked again thinking, oh great, now I am going to have to go up with her to help and 'bury' my testimony too. (and if anyone knows me and public speaking, they don't go well together. Picture Ozzy Osborne bearing his testimony. words mixed together, mumbling, not making sense, audience confused at what was said, yep thats me.)

But she seemed so confident I figured to let her go on her own. She had to sit and wait until the next speaker finished and then she got up to the stand and said:

"I would like to bury my testimony, I love to pray and I love to read the scriptures and I am trying to be like Jesus. In the name of Jesus Christ Amen"

And then the whole congregation gave her a standing ovation.

(okay, they really didn't, but maybe the should have, I'm just saying.)

I was so proud of her!!!

side note: my nephew baby m&m (Emmett Ray) was born, I haven't met him yet but I can't wait to get my cuddles on with him. Also I found out that my other sister in law Ashley is having another BOY. This will make seven nephews for me and still no nieces. COME ON PEOPLE!!

Oh, the places we go

2011-05-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

Oh the places we go........

and all the things we do.......

I hope to catch up on blogging too!

(just call me Dr. Suess)

We have had a lot of big events happen over the past few weeks. I hope I can find time in the next week or so to blog about them all.

Krew's birthday, Easter, Fishing, Jett's Blessing, Pseudo Graduation for Jack, preschool graduation for Havyn and maybe when I get all caught I MIGHT be able to tell you about a brand new baby (nephew) that will be blessing our lives soon.

(baby m&m, please don't wait until I have finished my blogging to come out, otherwise you might be in there a few more months and that wouldn't be fun for your momma and plus I want to play with you)

Because of......

2011-05-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

..... {my kids} I get to celebrate Mother's Day

I get to have my meals made for me and cute homemade mother's day cards

I also get extra hugs, kisses and snuggles

Thanks for being amazing kids

..... {my mom} I still get to be a child

I have someone who takes care of me.

I always have someone to laugh with, whine and complain to and share my secrets with

well, between the callable hours of 10 am and 9 pm, minus your 5 - 6 pm nap time

(don't worry, after having three kids I now know why you sleep so much, I can't wait to catch up on my sleep)

Thanks for being the best mom and grandma

.... {my mother-in-law} I get to be married to my favorite person

Thanks for being Jack's mom and raising him with a great sense of humor and a kind heart

and for being a second mom to me, even while you are serving the Lord in Africa.

But remember when he does something wrong he is YOUR son,

when he does something good he is MY husband. :)

Thanks for being the best mother-in-law and grandma

Jettakiss

2011-04-01T21:22:00.000-07:00

6 Months.....6 MONTHS!!!

I can't quite wrap my head around the fact that this little creature

has been in our lives for 6 months.

He couldn't be more of a perfect third child.

He gets stepped on, poked, loved on and probably ignored,

more than the other two and through it all, he still smiles his big ole smile.

(That I can't get enough of, really who could??)

Here are some highlights of Jett's first 6 months of life:

He can sit

He can army crawl/inch worm to an object a foot away

He has already has his first hair cut, mighty studly if I do say so

He eats some veggies and rice and oatmeal cereal

Laughs, smiles and rolls his lips

No teeth (this is more of a celebration for me)

He loves to watch Havyn and Krew play

He sleeps through the night and takes great naps

He patiently waits for me to feed him, whether it has been 2 or 5 hours since the last feeding.

Nicknames - Jettakiss (by Havyn), Jetterbugs (by mom), Jettermergretter (by dad), and Ett, (by Krew)

WE LOVE HIM!

Ready for Spring!

2011-03-15T21:35:00.000-07:00

Monthly Update: Sometimes blogging just eludes me.

Here is what we have been up to since our last post.We finished celebrating Havyn's birthday with Birthday Cake

and playtime at Discovery Gateway.We said Good-Bye Mr. Winter, thanks for all the fun, till next year. We got our jump on at Airborne to celebrate Jack finishing his Master Project.

These blocks were almost impossible to get out of, as shown by our friend Kayla.
Smiles of relief from his PA friends
We showed some brotherly love

We had several pajama days (my fav) due to sniffles, blah weather and laziness.

Havyn Potter and the Tri-Wizard Birthday Party

2011-02-13T21:20:00.000-08:00

Get the party started...........

Krew thought he would take it upon himself to test out the cupcakes before the party started to make sure they didn't contain 'Draught of Living Death'. Jack, Havyn and I were not in the room to catch him being mischievous.

Cutest Tri-Wizards Ever!!!

Transfiguration - The kids got to decorate their wizard's hat, put on a lighting bolt tattoo, cast a spell and don the infamous black-framed Potter specs.

They also got to shoot dragons and search for mythical creatures and dragon eggs outside.

My attempt and Harry Potter decorating, from ivillage.com.

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY

HAVYN!!!

You magically entered our lives and cast a love spell on us forever!

Today, I'm Italian

2011-02-08T21:28:00.000-08:00

In the book "Eat, Pray, Love" The author talks about the difference between Americans and Italians. She says that Americans have an ingrained sense of Puritan guilt. Americans are always questioning if they deserve to do something good for themselves and then feel guilty when they do. Italians KNOW they deserve to do things just for themselves. So when my friend Kacey called me up and asked if I wanted to go get a pedicure (Katy Perry style) with her, I jumped at that chance. And I am not going to feel the least bit guilty about it.

Check out my hot, hot, hot Valentines day toes and yes I have my dads man feet.

Thanks Kacey for the Pedi and Gramma for watching the kids.

Punx

2011-02-02T20:23:00.000-08:00

Will he? Won't he????
OH, THE SUSPENSE!!!

No, I am not talking about Brad and his rose ceremony. (I am just putting it out there, Michelle is a loon!)

I am talking about today when Punxsutawney Phil makes his grand appearance to see if he sees or does not see his shadow. (I think in my next life I want his job, make one appearance a year, have a whole day that everyone celebrates you and you predict the future, how cool is that. Not to mention you have a rockin name.)

This year Punx predicted that we will have an early spring. Hallelujah! So what else could the kiddo's and I do? Celebrate this wonderful holiday of course. (Kudos to whomever made this a holiday.)

Kids chillin on the 'ground' eating Hawaiian Pizza. Yumm

If I would have seen this on someone's blog five years ago I would have thought "Wow, these stay at home moms don't have anything better to do with their lives than celebrate measly holidays?" But I would tell my 23 year old self now that sometimes being a mom feels like groundhogs day. (the movie, not the actual day of popping out of a hole)

You get up at the same time to the same screaming children and you are wearing the same clothes you wore yesterday, you clean the same rooms, pick up the same toys, clean the same laundry, tell your kids the same things, (mind your p's and q's, don't wipe your snot on the wall, put your underwear on, don't pull your sisters hair, ect.) Feed them, bathe them and then go to bed exhausted, just to wake up the next day to......the same thing in repeat.

But, (see how big that but was) everyday you get the same hugs and kisses from the same smiling children, you get to see them learn something new, you get to imagine with them, slay dragons, fly like fairies, put on a cape and save the world, you get to laugh with them, make weird bodily sounds (and get laughed at, instead of someone thinking you are crude.) and you get to watch them grow emotionally, physically and spiritually. And those are the things that will never get old day in and day out.

So bring on groundhogs day to help remind me that I love being a Mom!

Even Jett is excited about Punx's prediction!

2011-01-24T20:42:00.000-08:00

Havyn gives me these cards after she gets put in

Time-Out for doing something wrong.
The other day she was sitting in Time-Out and yelled
"Mom, Time-Outs don't work for me anymore, I would rather do chores."
I'd love more help around the house,
but I think I will miss the cards. :(

All the Way to the Superbowl!!

2011-01-23T10:01:00.001-08:00

Go Packers!!!!

My Boys

2011-01-11T20:46:00.000-08:00

Jett at 3 months

Rolling over from front to back

Laughing out loud

Sleeping through the night

Smiling constantly

and he still has his eyes and belly button after Krew pokes at them all day. (hopefully his eyes are still working)

Like father like son - everyone I meet tells me Krew looks just like Jack. I guess he wants to be like his dad too, because he loves to put on his hat and shoes.

Krew has a fasination with belly buttons lately, he loves sticking his finger in his and everyone elses.

Christmas

2011-01-11T20:26:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous Christmas this year!

Our family was spoiled by the whole family on both sides - Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Parents, Grandparents and Greats.

Thank you!

Pillow pets were a big hit.

I love this picture of Krew. He wasn't into the whole unwrapping of presents so he mostly chilled and let Havyn have all the fun.
He loves his soft blankie.

Havyn loves mythical creatures and so she received a unicorn and a her favorite book to go with it, A Dignity of Dragons.
From Santa all Havyn wanted was a puppet theater that was the color of the rainbow.

I'd say Santa did a great job and had help from many of his elves.

So this is Christmas

2010-12-17T20:21:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas! The whole Christmas season!

Now, please don't ask why, You all know the reason.

It could be the one caroler that sang with all her might.
It could be the lights, that lit up the night. (alright enough with Suess)

Note to self - Next year buy a pre-constructed Gingerbread House.

Havyn and I have been learning how different countries around the world celebrate Christmas.

In Great Britain they wear crowns when they eat Christmas Dinner.

Havyn sitting on Father Christmas's lap asking him for a Puppet Theater.

If anyone has a chance to go to This is Place Heritage Park this Christmas, Do IT. It is a lot of fun for the kids. They had reindeer, Father Christmas, dancing, crafts, a puppet show, train rides and a live nativity. It was a lot of fun and we had the Pratt's join us which made it even more fun. Thanks guys!

Here we are playing with Christmas gloop. That is a tradition everyone has... right?

Fun pic that I had to throw in.

Havyn loved sledding........Krew, not so much.

Here is the Saunders style snowman (tie-dyed)

That is some of the things we have been up to the past few weeks.

Merry Christmas!

........and the rest of the Kiddo's Pictures

2010-12-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

As I have been stalking blogs over the past few years I have noticed once people have three kids their blog posts drop off drastically. I didn't think for a second that would be an exception, especially considering my posts were already random. So if you see a post from me know that I am most likely posting instead of doing dishes, sweeping or cleaning.

(See what I have to give up in the name of blogging)

There were so many good ones to choose from. I loved them all.

Jett Damon Saunders

2010-11-09T20:51:00.000-08:00

Announcement:

I had a son....... for the second time
And it has taken me six weeks to announce it on the blog
my apologies to the blog world

JETT DAMON SAUNDERS

Weighing in at a whopping

9 lbs 4 oz

21 inches

gotta love them Saunders lipsgotta love the hat
gotta love the smile

gotta love him

My friend/photographer Noelle took these cute pics.

(more to come later)

I love them!!

Check her out at

noellepix.blogspot.com

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T10:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

from Jessie, Woody and Tigger too.

The Last Week with Bowen (Finally)

2010-09-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

Alright, Alright, here is the last week of our fun time with Bowen. It's long overdue. Here are the many pics of how we spent the week.

Jack took the kids to the BIG park.

We played in the water.

Bowen and Havyn were extra good one day so they were able to decorate cupcakes.

These two cute little pirates made eye patches, necklaces and went on a treasure hunt.

We went to the mall and played in the Dino playland.

The kids threw pennies into the fountain and made wishes. I am pretty sure Bowen's wish was for his mom and dad to come home. Luckily it came true.

More water fun.

We went to my in-laws awesome cabin in Bear Lake. The kids loved the pool and playing outside the cabin.

We went to the aquarium and saw the Nemo fish, the new penguins and Havyn touched the Sting-Rays for the first time (It was kind of a big deal). Bowen was brave and touched the sea stars and urchins.

Thanks for staying with us Bowen!! We love you.

Sorry, My Bad

2010-09-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

My nephew Lachlan came over today and I put him down for a nap and when I went to check on him, I found this-

His whole body was covered with a blanket and since neither of my kids did this I decided to take a picture and send it to my brother via text and I said "Is this normal for your son"

He quickly texted me back by saying "Who is this and which son do you have? What have you done to him? Is he okay? What is going on in the picture?" ...Leah (mmmmm, Leah is not Karson)

Then I realized that I punched in my brother's number instead of finding him in my contacts, and well I punched it in wrong. I put in a five instead of a two (stupid fat pregnancy fingers.) I quickly texted Leah back and told her I had made a mistake. She texted me back and told me that she has five boys and she was panicking. OOPS. Sorry Leah!!

Actually, I am only really sorry I didn't ask for Ransom money.

Here's to Katniss

2010-08-23T20:15:00.001-07:00

Dear Mockingjay -

Over the next day or two I will probably ignore my kids, husband, housework and food while I devour every page. (Who am I kidding, I could NEVER ignore food)

Please don't disappoint me!

No Pics Today.....Mom/Babysitter on Break

2010-08-12T20:37:00.000-07:00

My mom was in town and she sent Jack and I on a breakfast date while she took the kiddo's to the park. After finishing breakfast I asked Jack if he was ready to go back to reality. We both agreed we weren't and we spent an extra half hour chatting at Village Inn. Luckily it was Free Pie Wednesday and we devoured Jack's slice of Lemon Supreme. I took mine home hoping to eat it in the only room of the house where a boy of nine could sit in privacy and decode, but when I went in the kitchen I found Bowen with lemon and whipped cream all over his hands and mouth. :) I spent the rest of the day with my mom just enjoying the day and her company. Thanks for the break Mom!

A Day at the Farm

2010-08-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

Wheeler Farm.......

Rabbits, ducks, water, tractor ride, goats, horses, cows, leaf races and stinky smells = Fun

Well, at least Jack is happy to be going on a wagon/tractor ride.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game

2010-08-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

On Monday we headed to Family Night at the Bee's game to enjoy a night of home runs, pop flys, a picture with the Bee, an hour long wait in line and a train ride on the Bumblebee Express. I am not sure who won the game.......GO BEES!!

FYI: Hogle Zoo doesn't trade kids for Monkeys

2010-08-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

Jack suggested that he would take Havyn and Bowen to the BIG park in the morning so Krew and I could take a much needed nap. They were gone for about two hours and I don't think my house has ever been so quiet. I could have used those two hours a little more wisely but oh that nap was Heaven. Thanks Jack!

In the afternoon we went to the Zoo! All the kids loved seeing the animals. We went to the zoo at the perfect time, the gates were closing, but the grounds were still open for another hour and a half. We pretty much had the zoo to ourselves.

Papa Dew

2010-08-08T19:56:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to a funeral for Papa Dew (Jacks Grandpa Dewey Whatcott). He lived longer than the average man but when the love of his life died late last year he was heartbroken and didn't want to live without her. Now they have been reunited. He will be missed, but his legacy will be passed on through his jokes and poems that he told us over and over and over again. We won't forget them.

A post a day

2010-08-07T19:55:00.000-07:00

A post a day..........maybe, I'll try.........no promises.

We get to babysit my sister-in-law's little boy while her and her husband are visiting my in-laws in Africa (we hope they are in Africa, they might be held up somewhere at the embassy).

I am going to try to post a picture of what we have been up to each day so they can see that we didn't just lock him in a closet all day. We let him out, once in a while.

Bowen loved to drive the jeep, mostly he went in circles, but he did manage to drive down a huge hill and was able to get a pregnant lady to sprint after him. It wasn't a pretty sight. Don't worry Pratts the jeep is insured.

First Day

2010-08-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

Here is Havyn ready to go to her first day of her second year of preschool. She is excited to learn, go on field trips, find new friends and play with the preschool toy dinosaurs.

Momma said there would be days like this

2010-08-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

I usually have great days, nothing to complain about. I get to spend all day with two kids that make me laugh and when I am sad they are always full of hugs and kisses. However, yester was just one of those days that I could have done without. Here are a few highs and lows of my day.

I woke up in the morning realizing that my cold this weekend did not go away it has only worsened. (Low)

Jack left to complete his last test of this year (High), which was only supposed to last until 10, little did I know he had planned an all day sportsfest with his PA friends.

Being sick I realized that I still had two little creatures depending on me and for some reason their idea of fun was not laying face down on the couch with a throw up bowl by their side and a wet rag on their forehead. (Low)

I weighed my options.

We could go outside to the park...... too hot.

We could go to the swimming pool....... no money.

We could go to the mall and let the kids play in the malls play area, free and air conditioned...... perfect!

I got dressed and got the kids dressed. Before we left my shirt had ripped and Havyn spilled Lasagna on her white shorts. Quick change. (Low)

When I got to the mall I stepped out of my car and stepped into someones gum. This is the third time this summer that I have stepped in gum. Come on people, find a piece of paper and properly throw your gum away. What has this world come to. After cursing under my breath Havyn told me I need to watch where I step. Ya right, I can't see my toes, let alone the ground a foot in front of me (two more months, two more months.) (Low)

We arrived at the mall and headed straight to the Dinosaur kids play area. I explained to Havyn that we couldn't get a pretzel or ice cream at the mall. S he told me "I know MOM, we have no money!" (Low)

At the Dinosaur play area my kids did not hit, bite, yell or push any kids off the slide. In fact Havyn told me she was going to pretend she was a Paleontologist and she was looking for dinosaur bones and new friends, which she found both. (High)

We were about to leave and I wanted to go upstairs to window shop at children's clothing store. Why I chose to go up the escalators and not the elevators I have no idea. I sent Havyn up first and then put Krew's umbrella stroller and myself on going backwards, a few stairs down from Havyn. I looked at Havyn and she was on all fours like a dog. I told her to stand up so when the stairs straighten up she wouldn't fall flat on her face. She started screaming at the top of her lungs "I don't know how to do this, I don't know how to do this." So I picked up Krew's umbrella stroller, which buckled and trapped Krew inside while I picked up Havyn and safely helped her off those darn tricky escalator stairs. (Low) Krew was just fine by the way.

After looking at the children's clothing store we went down the ELEVATOR and started heading out. Havyn saw the quarter machine car rides and asked if she could sit in them and use her imagination and pretend they are moving. So I put her and Krew in for some free enjoyment. As I was standing there watching my kids, feeling bad that I didn't even have a quarter to pop in the machine a handicapped man, looking discouraged and downtrodden slowly wheeled himself toward me. Okay, life isn't so bad, it could be worse. I may be on the verge of hacking a lung, unable to wear more than half my wardrobe and so broke I can't even scrounge 25 cents together for a car ride for my kids but dammit it could be worse. Just then, he wheeled right up to me looked me straight in the eye and said "I feel sorry for you." He then turned around and rolled away. HE felt sorry for ME. (Rock bottom low)

Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

Beat the Heat

2010-07-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

Krewsers - a little too much slip, not enough slide.

These two kiddo's love to be outside and would be outside all day everyday, if I let them. But, being preggers I enjoy being in the A/C a little too much. aahhhhhh. Apparently Blanding homes aren't built with A/C, so this was our way to beat the heat! Havyn and Krew both loved the slip-n-slide, especially when Uncle Lehi threw them down the slide.

I have a video, but I can't figure out how to upload it, it may come, may not. Don't hold your breath.

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

I look forward to Jack's days off from school, even if it is only a three day weekend. We try to jam pack as many activities in as we can. We visited family, enjoyed dinner at Smoky Mountain Pizza and Pasta, went to a birthday party, a Bee's game, a BBQ, played at the park, went to Shrek, the Library and went on a hike to Donut Falls up Big Cottonwood Canyon. (gorgilious, as the late Steve Irwin would say, may he rest in peace.)

Havyn and the BEE. She was so excited to meet the Bee, she saw a commercial where kids met the Bee and she looked for him everywhere until she could meet him. Before the game we went to Demsey's, my friend Devans, first birthday party. Devan had a lot of cute crafts for the kids to do, Havyn made the pasta barrettes in her hair.

On Sunday Havyn had to give the scripture in Church, she memorized Doctrine & Covenants 14:7 and said it perfectly without help in front of the Primary.

There was a lot of snow still up the Canyon, but it was still a great hike and not too cold.

Krew didn't want to be carried at all throughout the hike, he wanted to walk it all, which made it take a little longer than it should have been.

Havyn took this picture.

We are at Donut Falls, we can't wait to go back when all the snow melts.

We are all laughing at Daddy!

Its a..... Its a.......

2010-05-11T20:35:00.000-07:00

Seriously, isn't that the cutest profile picture you have ever seen. I know what you are thinking, you are thinking that it doesn't have Tyrel's nose or Jacks lips. But that is the actual picture we got today from the Doctor telling us its a BOY!!! (and no, this picture was not found on google images.) Everyone is excited except for Havyn, who cried when we told her that she was not getting her baby sister that she wanted. She told us that she didn't want to be the lone girl and that she was just having a rough day. Hopefully she will change her mind when realizes that she doesn't have to share her barbies, clothes or dolls with the boys, although she will have to protect her dinosaurs.

Happy Birthday Havyn!

2010-04-25T22:10:00.001-07:00

This year Havyn got to have two birthday parties! Lucky girl. The first one she had was with the Lacy cousins. It was a Dinosaur Themed Party.

The Dinosaur Cake

Krew enjoying the Cake

The Guests - Krew, Lachlan, Havyn, Liam and Grady

After everyone left, Havyn turned to me and said, now I want to model all my presents.

Look out America's Next Top Model, this girls got skills.

Work it, work it

Posing

Practicing for the red carpet

This bracelet came all the way from Africa. Grandpa and Grandma Saunders sent a bracelet and a necklace for Havyn made especially for her. She loved it.

FIERCE!!

Those who know me well, know I did not teach Havyn these wicked moves. I blame it on her aunt Marci.

The second party she had was a princess party with an awesome crown cake (made by my super talented cousin Chelsea), a treasure hunt, dinner and necklace making.

Havyn has been planning her birthday party for the past seven months, I hope that even though there wasn't dancing and it wasn't a surprise party like she wanted she still enjoyed it.

I still can't beleive Havyn is four, how did the past four years go so fast? At four here are a few of Havyn's favorite things.

-Princesses, Dinosaurs, books (she loves to be read to and she has even started to read by herself, she knows her letters, vowels and all their sounds and it now putting them together.) She still wants to be a Doctor when she grows up and then she adds that she also wants to be a good mom, but her husband will just have to bring the kids to her doctors office when they are sick and she will take care of them. She loves to draw. When she has a coloring page in front of her she will add to the pictures by drawing a cloud, a bird or a necklace but she won't color the picture. She loves being a big sister and having the responsibility of getting to watch over Krew or teach him things. She loves to make Krew laugh and knows just how to do it. Havyn knows her way around the computer, probably more than she should. She loves to do crafts and make things. She loves to play outside chasing after soccer balls or passing the basketball to daddy so he can shoot it for a lay-up.

10 Truth Tags

2010-04-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law Marci tagged me with this 10 Truths Tag. I think it was her sneaky way of trying to get me to update my blog. Real Tricky! But it worked and it was fun.

1. I love green powerade (green squall) and have since High School.

2. Weeds that are taller than me give me the Heebiee Jebbies.

3. The third little creature is on its way. Due Sept 30th. WooHoo!

4. Joel McHale is my celebrity crush.

5. I think I may get translated at anytime. So if you are near me, make sure you have a clear shot to my ankles so you can grab on when I start heading up.

6. I am missing my bottom front tooth.

7. I don't think women should have to clean toilets. It is not our pee that runs down the side of the toilet or pools up behind the seat.

8. If I start watching a movie or reading a book, and I hate it at the beginning, I will keep watching or reading it until the end. I keep hoping the ending will make the book or movie good. It usually doesn't happen, I should learn by now.

9. I have never been more proud of my husband then I have in the past year. He has studied so hard to do well in the PA program. One more year!

10. Being a stay at home mom is the best job I have ever had, and I love every second of it.

Tag you it.....I tag the Wenisfest Crew (the time is drawing near)

Happy Birthday Dr. Suess

2010-04-04T22:51:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago it was Dr. Suess's birthday. Each day we read a book and did a craft that ties into the book. I tried to remember to take pictures of the crafts we did. Yertle the Turtle
The Star Bellied Sneetches

The Cat and the Hat - Thing One and Thing Two

We also read On Beyond Zebra and Havyn made up a letter that went on beyond Z and we read Daisy Head Mazie and made a flower coming out of Havyn's head. Havyn is so creative and keeps me on my toes always wanting to do an activity or a craft.

Dinosaur Museum

2010-04-04T22:42:00.000-07:00

Havyn has been into Dinosaurs for a while now, I mean really into dinosaurs. She wants to read about them, watch them and learn everything she can about them. She even knows a lot of their names, have you ever heard of an Elasmosaurus? Neither had I, look it up, its in a book. She has even written a story and made a book about Dinosaurs. She has been to a couple of Dinosaur museums in the past few months. Here are a few pictures of our last trip to Thanksgiving Point.
Run Havyn Run. She knows not to mess with a T-Rex.

White Coat Ceremony

2010-04-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

In January before Jack's Physician's Assistant class could start their Friday clinicals they had to first get their White Coat. This coat was renamed the "Coat of Compassion" by one of the directors of the program. He said it represents dedication to the patient while adhering to the Physician Assistant Oath and Code of Ethics. I think it represents two of the hardest years of their lives. Jack has missed out on so much. He spends hours and hours including Saturday's and Sunday's studying for tests that are every Monday. He has worked so hard and even though school has been hard for the both of us the end result will be awesome!! I am so proud of him and how hard he has worked.The whole class with their White Coats. Brandon, Brian, Johan, Jack and Big D (Darren).

The wives club. Kate, Tyrel, Jess, Kayla and Shannon. We may look good in this picture, but just come to our house about 1:00 PM and I think we would all still be in our pajama's with our hair not looking nearly this good. But we clean up well. It was good to get out and get dressed up for a night. Thanks Grandma Pat and Gareth and Barb for watching our kids.

Awww, doesn't he look professional? Anyone need a check up? Sore Throat, Ear Infection Pelvic Exam?

The Basketball Crew - Micah, Ben, Mike, Tony, Johan, Brandon, Brian and Jack.

Thanks Shannon for taking the pictures and sending them to me.

What We Do

2010-04-04T21:53:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pictures of a few things we have been up to while enjoying our life in Salt Lake.

Krew and Havyn love to play with each other. Nobody can make Krew laugh like Havyn can. She walks into the room and no matter what Krew is doing he stops and watches her.

Havyn was invited by KUED and the Salt Lake County Libraries to join them for a Super Readers Party. Havyn had to read 20 minutes a day for a month. Anyone that knows Havyn, knows that 20 minutes a day is not hard. That is usually a minimum for her. Havyn got to meet her favorite cartoon character, Buddy, from Dinosaur Train. I think Havyn is a little nervous that Buddy might eat her. She knows that T-Rex's are meat eaters and from the way he is rubbing his hands together I think she might be right.

Here is Krew-manchu, Krewbie Doobie Doo, Little man wrecking Krew or Krewsers Bruisers doing what he does best, smiling and tearing apart one of Havyn's many drawings. I have to constantly tell Havyn if she doesn't want it slobbered on or tore apart she has to put it where Krew can't get it. Krew never stops going, he loves to get into everything he can and seeing how it works. He is so fun to have around. His favorite toys are trucks and balls....go figure.

Nobody plays like Daddy. The kids love it when he comes home. I don't know how he goes to school and studies all day and then comes home with so much energy. He loves these kids.

Ummm, Jack I think I know how you hurt your back.

We took Havyn bowling and she was a natural.** I think she even beat Jack.

Ice Skating

2010-04-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

Havyn really wanted to try Ice Skating this year. It was right next to the Library so every time we went Havyn begged me to take her. Well I can barely walk on my own two feet so Jack took her a couple of times and tried to teach her. She was super excited to go and wants to keep trying. She was mesmerized this year by the Olympic figure skaters. Next year I will post a video of Havyn's triple salchow that she mastered this year.

Happy New Years

2010-04-04T21:27:00.000-07:00

For New Years this year we were invited over to my friend Stacy's house for a night full of friends, food, Guitar Hero and plenty of noise makers. I think we made it until 10:00 PM. We received a phone call from my Grandma Pat who was watching Havyn telling us that she was screaming and Havyn telling her that her ears were hurting. We took both kids to the doctors the next day to find out that they both had double ear infections. The first of many this winter.

It is always good to hang out with friends who have known you forever. You can throw out quotes like "When today, some not a lot" or "The Hutch, every which way but loose" and the reaction is always going to be giggles, which leads to more inside jokes that our husbands will never and probably never want to get. I love having good friends new and old. Next year we will try making it until midnight.

Christmas in April - 3rd Christmas

2010-04-04T20:41:00.001-07:00

I know its been four months, but better late than never!

We spent Christmas Eve and Christmas morning with my mom and Bob. We enjoyed my favorite Christmas traditions. I am still a kid at heart and so we still do things the way we did them when I was little.

1. Christmas Slush - I think I ate 80% of it

2. Opening Up Christmas Eve Pajamas

3. Opening Up Brother/Sister/Cousin Gifts Christmas Eve

4. Decorating Christmas Cookies

I also loved being able to see Havyn's face when she opened her presents, it was priceless. This year Havyn really got into the true meaning of Christmas, but if you ask her right now she might say its about barbies and dinosaurs.

Thanks Mom & Bob For A Great Christmas.

Second Christmas

2010-01-20T21:17:00.001-08:00

Christmas at Pops began with sledding. Fortunately Blanding got hit with some serious snow and fortunately for us my dad lives on a huge hill, perfect for sledding. Havyn wasn't into the whole sledding bit, one ride down the hill was enough for her.

She had to go inside and help Pops decorate his tree. She just couldn't understand why it wasn't decorated yet. Pops said he was waiting for her help.

Havyn loved her Cinderella dress.Krew was just happy, as always.

We love Pops! Thanks for the presents.By the end of it, Krew was plum tuckered.

First Christmas

2010-01-20T20:52:00.000-08:00

Being the first of three Christmas present-opening sessions for Havyn and Krew, they began slowly, really trying to pace themselves. They made a killing, compliments from Grandma and Grandpa Saunders.

Whatcott Family Party

2010-01-16T20:36:00.000-08:00

Every year we have a Christmas Party with Jack's mothers family. There is always great food, great people and fun games.

The best part of the night was when Jack's parents called from their mission in Africa and we all were able to speak with them.

Thanksgiving

2010-01-07T22:11:00.001-08:00

For Thanksgiving this year we traveled to Logan to have a feast provided by our own Marci Stewart. The table was exquisite, complete with our very own Pilgram place settings. The food was amazing from the perfectly cooked turkey to the individual pumpkin pies and the company was so-so. Just kidding the place settings were cute little pumpkins.

Priceless

2010-01-07T21:58:00.000-08:00

Dance lessons for Havyn: $30

Admission to recital: $10

**notice Havyn's wave is not directed towards the camera, we are not sure who she is waving to.

Watching Havyn perform the entire dance backwards: PRICELESS

Living After the "I Do"

2009-11-29T16:32:00.000-08:00

At the end of the Disney fairytales you see the Prince and Princess riding off into the sunset with the caption below "They lived happily ever after" What does that mean? Does Disney only want to show the courtship of a couple and deceive young minds to believe that THAT was the hard part? Finding the ONE person who you could love, your true soul-mate? And after the games of dating and the hustle and bustle of preparing for the wedding it’s all down hill from there? Well here is my take on what happened to the famous couples after the I Do’s.

Aurora & Prince Phillip

Could you imagine having four mother-in-laws...............shudder (enough said).

Cinderella and Prince Charming
Charming is still desperately in love with Cinderella, but he is trying to get her help. He had her committed to an inpatient psych ward after a colossal mental breakdown. The sad thing is he should have seen it coming. Strike one: both parents died at a young age (sad). Strike two: she was ordered around and abused by three ungrateful women under the guise of family. Strike three: He found the drawer she kept her handmade rodent clothes in. To top it off, in the midst of the confrontation she began sobbing for an old fairy woman to come intervene. The jury is still out on their happily ever after.

Jasmine and Aladdin "The wandering couple."

Did we really think these two were going to settle down and change ways? Aladdin is on his fourth stint at The Agrabah Prison for theft, while Jasmine, little miss ‘the grass is greener on the other side,’ has had affairs with everyone but the flying carpet. In fact people in town are starting to refer to her as ‘The Magic Carpet Ride.’ There’s only one reason girls wear bra’s as tops; easy access. Maybe someday Aladdin will change, but as long as that sticky fingered Abu is around to influence him, he’ll "never see the light of Day."

Eric and Ariel

I don’t know if any one else caught it but you could cut the sexual tension between Eric and ole Grimsby with a knife. How long do you think he had that statue of Eric at his house before he finally gave it to him?

Today is seven years after I said "Yes." Seven years ago today we both committed to the long climb upwards from "I do" to Happily Ever After. We may not have mice to keep our house clean, magic wands to fix all our mistakes or a genie to make our wishes come true but because we try everyday to help, love and grow with each other we will make it to our ever after, hopefully happily, and there will never be a dull moment.
I love you Jack!

Jackers its your Birthday, Happy Birthday Jackers

2009-11-21T20:31:00.000-08:00

Havyn Saunders Poem for Jacks Birthday

Daddy Jack can do something very funny!

Piper Pete is running on his toe

He is funny, funny, funny!

Piper Pete is climbing up his neck.

He is very funny-aroo.

I love to play Dinosaurs and Dragons

me-oh-my a magons.

I love my Daddy Jack.

He goes quack, quack, quack.

We Love you Jack, Happy 30th Birthday.

I'm a fan!

2009-11-15T21:44:00.000-08:00

I love snow, snowmen, eating snow, snowballs, sledding, snow angels and everything to do with snow. After about an hour of snow fun with Havyn she turned to me and said very sly and mischievous "It must be Christmas." I cannot wait for Christmas, however, I believe every holiday should have its day.

So heres to Thanksgiving.

Here is our countdown to Thanksgiving turkey.

Daddy Jack and Havyn are making Indian Tee-pees. Well Daddy Jack made the tee-pees, Havyn ate the frosting.
**These are not real Indian Tee-pees, nor were they purchased, found, sold or stolen off of Federal Lands.**

Nephews

2009-11-15T21:06:00.000-08:00

I have the cutest nephews!

This past weekend Ashley (My Brother Lehi's Wife) gave birth to Liam Stryder Lacy. Welcome to the world Liam, I can't wait to get to know you! He is so cute and has the tiniest ears I have ever seen.

He looks just like his brother Grady did when he was born. Grady is such a tease. Over the weekend he would take my nose and throw it or pull my hair and laugh. I wish these two lived closer to me so I could see them everyday.

Lachlan (my brother Karson's son) is a month younger than Grady. Grady and Lachlan have two totally different personalities. Lachlan is a busy little boy and very smart. He can do all the actions to Popcorn popping on the apricot tree, but he does them so fast when you sing you can't keep up with him.

Last but not least is Havyn's Prince Charming, Bowen (Jacks sister Marci's boy). Or as we like to call him at our house Bobo-ski-bottenbotten. Bowen is all boy! (Except when his mom and Havyn dress him up as a princess.) He never gets tired of seeing neigh-neighs across the street from his house or throwing balls.

See I told you they were cute! I love them all, but please, please will someone give me a niece?

Fall Fun

2009-11-03T21:52:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago we went to Blanding. Havyn loves Blanding, unfortunately, Krew was sick the whole time so we didn't get to do much. Havyn and I raked up all the leaves and jumped in them over and over. I was surprised how much Havyn liked it. I brought Krew out for a little while, you can tell he didn't enjoy it as much as Havyn. Maybe next year.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-01T20:49:00.000-08:00

6 Months and None the Richer

2009-11-01T20:13:00.001-08:00

Krew!!

Our little man is 6 months old. Here are a few stats about Krew and what he can do.

17 lbs
29 Inches
He can roll over
He can sit up
He has one bottom tooth
He loves to laugh and smile
His favorite person is Havyn
He eats fruits, vegetables and rice cereal
He loves to jump in his baby bouncer
He blows raspberries
He is good at reaching and grabbing objects
He already had his first haircut
He loves to balance on his daddys outstretched hand

I would love to say that I can't remember what life was like without him, but I can, it included sleeping through the night, clean shirts and no changing diapers. But I wouldn't change one second of him being in my life. Getting a smile from Krew is worth the spit ups, the night wakenings and changing hundreds of stinky diapers. I know someone upstairs is watching and knows my family, because Krew is the perfect fit for us. We love you Krewsers Bruisers.

Snatching Pumpkins

2009-10-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

"There are three things I have learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics and the Great Pumpkin." - Linus

Havyn, Krew, Gramma Pat and I went on our search for the Great Pumpkin. Havyn wanted to find all of us pumpkins to correspond with our size. She found a blue wheelbarrow and was off. Unfortunately it became too heavy for her when we put in the daddy pumpkin so she put in the Krew size pumpkin instead. Our family looks forward to hollowing 'em out and carving 'em up.

Best Buddies

Blogging Molly

2009-10-10T16:45:00.000-07:00

We're bloggers now, we caved! With Jacks parents on a Mission in Africa and my family living so far away we thought we needed to start a blog so they can see our family grow up and keep track of what we are doing. For starters Jack is schoolbound 24/7. Jack has been in PA school since May. Five months down, Yeah. We have moved down to the Salt Lake Valley from Logan. Havyn is 3 1/2 and in Pre-school now and has turned into quite a good rhymer like her father. We only hope that she doesn't call the girl named Piper in her class Piper Diaper like she calls her at home. Havyn is obsessed with Dinosaurs, princesses, planning parties and using her imagination. Krew is 5 1/2 months. He is always happy and can sit and roll over on command. (He doesn't drink out of our toilet or pee with one leg up.) Krew is now eating and enjoying rice cereal and yummy vegetables. Hopefully our posts will be more interesting and less like Christmas family update letters.